Agnello Kleftiko (Greek Lamb with Vegetables) – A Hearty Mediterranean Delight
Agnello Kleftiko is a flavorful and tender Greek lamb dish that’s cooked slowly in a parcel, combining tender lamb, aromatic herbs, fresh vegetables, and rich feta cheese. The slow cooking process infuses the lamb with incredible flavors, making it perfect for a comforting family meal or a special occasion. This recipe yields enough to serve 4 people and is perfect for those who appreciate Mediterranean cuisine. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this rustic and aromatic dish.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Leg of lamb | 3 kg |
| Potatoes | 700 g |
| Roma tomatoes | 400 g |
| Feta cheese | 200 g |
| Red onions | 1 |
| Fresh rosemary | 3 sprigs |
| Extra virgin olive oil | to taste |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
| Lemon juice | 150 g |
| Dry white wine | 120 g |
| Fresh thyme | 3 sprigs |
| Juniper berries | 4 |
| Black pepper | to taste |
Preparation:
Step 1: Preparing the Lamb
To begin preparing your Agnello Kleftiko, start by cleaning the leg of lamb. First, remove any excess fat and connective tissue, and carefully trim around the bone. Once cleaned, cut the lamb into large chunks. Transfer these pieces into a large bowl. Add the lemon juice, white wine, thyme leaves, and juniper berries. Stir the mixture well to ensure that all the lamb pieces are coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 2 hours to infuse the lamb with the flavors.
Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables
While the lamb marinates, prepare the vegetables. Peel and slice the red onion into wedges that are not too thin. Next, wash and cut the tomatoes and potatoes into pieces roughly the same size. Mix all the chopped vegetables together in a bowl and set aside.
Step 3: Assembling the Dish
After the lamb has marinated, remove it from the bowl and discard the marinade. Transfer the lamb pieces to a large mixing bowl. Add the prepared vegetables and drizzle them with extra virgin olive oil. Season with fresh rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together to ensure that the vegetables and lamb are well-coated with the seasoning.
Step 4: Adding the Feta
Cut the feta cheese into small cubes, and crumble it over the lamb and vegetable mixture. Divide the feta between the portions, ensuring an even distribution.
Step 5: Wrapping the Kleftiko
Now, it’s time to wrap your Agnello Kleftiko. Take a large sheet of parchment paper and place the lamb and vegetable mixture in the center. Fold the paper over the ingredients, creating a parcel by folding the edges toward the center, just like wrapping a gift. Do the same with another sheet of parchment paper to create a double layer. Tie the parcel securely with kitchen twine, making sure the contents are completely sealed.
Step 6: Baking
Place the wrapped parcels on a baking sheet and put them into a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for 4 hours. The slow cooking process will allow the lamb to become melt-in-your-mouth tender and allow the flavors of the rosemary, thyme, and juniper berries to meld beautifully with the lamb and vegetables.
Step 7: Serving
After 4 hours, remove the Agnello Kleftiko from the oven. Carefully unwrap the parcels (be cautious of the hot steam) and serve the lamb, vegetables, and feta directly from the parchment paper for a rustic presentation. Pair this dish with a light salad and crusty bread for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Tips for Success:
- Marinate for maximum flavor: For best results, let the lamb marinate for at least 2 hours, but if you have more time, marinating it overnight will deepen the flavors even more.
- Choose the right cut of lamb: The leg of lamb is ideal for slow cooking, as it’s tender and juicy when cooked low and slow.
- Ensure proper wrapping: Make sure that the parchment paper is sealed tightly so the lamb retains all its juices, resulting in a flavorful dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~650 kcal |
| Protein | ~55 g |
| Fat | ~40 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~25 g |
| Fiber | ~5 g |
| Sodium | ~600 mg |
| Cholesterol | ~120 mg |
Conclusion
Agnello Kleftiko is a delightful and rustic dish, perfect for those who love bold flavors and slow-cooked comfort food. The combination of tender lamb, hearty vegetables, and creamy feta cheese, along with the aromatic herbs and wine, makes for an unforgettable meal. Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this Greek lamb dish is sure to impress your guests or loved ones.
Enjoy the taste of Greece in the comfort of your own home with this amazing recipe!
